CONGESTION outside Bolton train station is set to ease from today with the opening of a new drop-off and pick-up facility.

And The Bolton News understands the layby outside the station, which is often the cause of gridlock on Trinity Street, with cars parking in the middle of the road to drop-off and pick-up passengers, will be discontinued.

The long-awaited drop-off zone and short stay parking facility for passengers means the improvements around the town centre interchange are now complete.

This includes demolition of redundant bus shelters outside the railway station.

The existing taxi rank has been remodelled and a cycle link has been created from the recently completed CYCLOPS junction improvement at Newport Street and Trinity Street to the cycle hub outside Bolton Interchange.

Bolton Council’s leader, Cllr Martyn Cox said: “Even though the road remained open, there were lane closures on Newport Street whilst the work took place.

“I’d like to thank all those whose journeys have been affected by these works for their patience whilst the improvements have been carried out.

“As well as a reduction in traffic congestion, journeys will be much more accessible and most importantly safer for all road users – pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.”

The work was delivered using Local Growth Deal funding by Bolton Council and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) as part of a set of wider highway improvements included within the Salford Bolton Network Improvement Programme (SBNI).

Chris Boardman, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said: “We want to create a seamless public transport network, where walking and cycling comes first, and these improvements help make that possible.

“On-foot and by-bike access to Bolton Interchange is now much easier. This work complements the new CYCLOPS junction on Trinity Way that opened earlier this year, and further works are now planned for early 2022, so watch this space.”

One driver said: "This new drop-off zone is much needed, inconsiderate drivers seem to think it is fine to park where ever they wish outside the train station causing gridlock and putting other motorists and pedestrians in danger.

"In recent days it has been a nightmare."